Jul 292013
Here is a checklist of 17 ways to check your way of thinking to help you grow into a humble follower of Christ. This list came from the writings of Saint Josemaria Escriva, founder of Opus Dei.
- Thinking that what you do or say is better than what others do or say.
- Always wanting to get your own way.
- Arguing when you are not right or — when you are — insisting stubbornly or with bad manners.
- Giving your opinion without being asked for it, when charity does not demand you to do so.
- Despising the point of view of others.
- Not being aware that all the gifts and qualities you have are on loan.
- Not acknowledging that you are unworthy of all honor or esteem, even the ground you are treading on or the things you own.
- Mentioning yourself as an example in conversation.
- Speaking badly about yourself, so that your listeners may form a good opinion of you, or contradict you.
- Making excuses when rebuked.
- Hiding some humiliating faults from those trying to help you grow, so they may not lose the good opinion of you.
- Hearing praise with satisfaction, or being glad that others have spoken well of you.
- Being hurt that others are held in greater esteem than you.
- Refusing to carry out menial tasks.
- Seeking or wanting to be singled out.
- Letting drop words of self-praise in conversation, or words that might show your honesty, your wit or skill, your professional prestige.
- Being ashamed of not having certain possessions.